Bucharest vs Istanbul

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Bucharest edges ahead as the better destination in December. Bucharest offers 5 hours of daily sunshine with only 7 rain days, while Istanbul sees 5 sunshine hours and 13 rain days.

Bucharest is on the cooler side at 4°C, requiring warmer clothing. Istanbul is cooler at 10°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Bucharest is the stronger choice in December.

Bucharest reaches an average high of 4°C (39°F) and drops to -3°C (27°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Istanbul averages 10°C (50°F) for the high and 6°C (43°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. There is a notable 6°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Bucharest receives approximately 46 mm of rainfall across 7 rain days during December. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Istanbul sees 99 mm over 13 rain days. That makes Bucharest the drier option by 6 rain days and 53 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.